Pancake day in Siauliai 2014

Pancake day Uzgavenes, the Lithuanian equivalent of Mardi Gras or Pancake Day, is a very popular festival in Lithuania. It is loved by children and by adults. Every year thousands of people put on scary masks and carnival costumes to celebrate Uzgavenes (before the Lent) which marks the last day of feasting before the fast of Lent. This holiday is meant to celebrate the last days of winter and to greet spring.

Pancake day People traditionally dress up as a scary characters such as a witch, a devil or the grim reaper 's to scare winter away. Dressed like this, they, especially children, go from one door to another demanding treats for singing funny songs and showing exciting outfits. The biggest celebrations take place in cities' central squares and streets.

Pancake day People also build the largest effigy of winter, named More, another significant Uzgavenes tradition. It is made of various materials and has the vague shape of a woman. It represents winter and is burned at the climax of the celebration. People dance around the effigy and sing traditional songs. 

Children in our school also celebrated Uzgavenes Pancake day Children in our school also celebrated Uzgavenes

Created by Darija Gudaityte, 7a